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Oral antibiotics can be used to treat acne. This is often the treatment of choice for individuals with acne in more than one part of the skin. Example is a condition wherein acne is not limited in the face area but also in the skin of the back and shoulders. In this case, oral antibiotic therapy is the most convenient and practical choice. Antibiotic therapy prevents the spread of acne-causing bacteria and reduces inflammation. However, side effects of oral antibiotics in treating acne were also observed in some individuals.

Erythromycin is one of the oral antibiotics of choice for individuals with mild to severe cases of acne who prefer antibiotic therapy. It has both anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Side effects of oral antibiotics such as erythromycin in treating acne include liver and cardiac toxicity and infection of the pancreas. Because of its liver toxicity side effects, erythromycin is not the recommended choice of acne treatment for pregnant patients.

Minocycline which is a tetracycline antibiotic is best taken with an empty stomach. Food and milk tends to decrease its rate of absorption. Like erythromycin, minocycline is likewise contraindicated for pregnant and lactating women. Side effects include indigestion and stomach upset. Dizziness is also complained by some patients that usually resolve after a couple of days. Chronic use may trigger pigmentation around the face and mucous membranes. Antacids should not be taken with minocycline because they can significantly affect the rate of absorption and thus lead to reduced efficacy.

Doxycycline is also a tetracycline antibiotic but it can be taken with a full stomach since it can easily be absorbed. Never take this drug together with antacids, magnesium, iron or calcium. It is also contraindicated among pregnant and lactating women. Side effects of oral antibiotics such as doxycycline include hypersensitivity to sunlight making the skin burn easily when exposed to the sun, gastrointestinal upset and diarrhea. Sunscreen is recommended prior to sun exposure when taking doxycycline. Vaginal yeast infection and yeast infection around the mouth is also a side effect in some individuals.

Prior to starting antibiotic therapy for acne treatment, it is best to consult a physician first. The side effects of oral antibiotics can become serious in some individuals. Precaution should be observed as well as proper endorsement from the doctor.